Top reasons to visit Highclere Castle
- Stunning Architecture: Highclere Castle boasts magnificent architecture that enchants visitors, reflecting its rich history.
- Downton Abbey Connection: The castle is famous for its role in the beloved series, offering fans a unique experience.
- Beautiful Grounds: Enjoy guided tours of the castle and its beautifully landscaped gardens, perfect for leisurely strolls.
- Charming Countryside: Explore the picturesque English countryside with quaint villages and inviting pubs nearby.
- Diverse Accommodations: A range of accommodations is available, catering to various preferences and budgets.
Find great hotels near Highclere Castle
Discover an array of delightful accommodations near Highclere Castle, perfect for your stay in this picturesque region of England. From luxurious hotels to charming inns, you’ll find pet-friendly options and welcoming spaces for LGBTQIA travellers. Whether you're seeking a business-friendly environment or a tranquil retreat, enjoy the comfort of well-appointed rooms just moments away from the majestic Highclere Castle and its stunning grounds.
- Basingstoke Hotel: This 4-star hotel offers a welcoming atmosphere for both business and leisure travellers, situated 27km from Highclere Castle. Known for its pet-friendly policy, Basingstoke Hotel allows certain pets, making it an excellent choice for those wishing to travel with their furry companions. The hotel features essential amenities for business travellers, alongside comfortable accommodations. Guests appreciate the thoughtful pet policy, which includes restrictions and fees, catering to the needs of both pets and their owners.
- The Winchester Hotel & Spa: Located 29km from Highclere Castle, this 4-star establishment is a haven for relaxation with a focus on wellness. The Winchester Hotel & Spa boasts a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, reflecting its commitment to guest satisfaction. The full-service spa offers a range of treatments, complemented by an indoor pool, sauna, and hot tub for ultimate relaxation. This hotel provides a tranquil environment, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing or business meetings, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a rejuvenating stay.
- Apollo Hotel: Just 19km from Highclere Castle, Apollo Hotel is a family-oriented 4-star accommodation that also caters to golf enthusiasts. The hotel provides a unique golf experience alongside family-friendly amenities, ensuring a delightful stay for guests of all ages. Families will find thoughtful features such as window guards for children and cribs available for a fee. The hotel’s proximity to golf facilities makes it a popular choice for those wishing to combine recreation with their holiday, creating memorable moments for both adults and children alike.
Where to stay near Highclere Castle
Visitors to Highclere Castle will discover a delightful blend of charm and tranquillity in the surrounding areas. Explore the picturesque English countryside, dotted with quaint villages and inviting pubs. The nearby towns offer a warm, friendly atmosphere perfect for families and budget travellers alike. Enjoy leisurely countryside getaways, immersing yourself in the enchanting landscapes that define this region, all within easy reach of the iconic Highclere Castle.
- Newbury: Situated in the heart of Berkshire, Newbury is a vibrant market town that serves as the gateway to Highclere Castle. Known for its rich history and picturesque surroundings, Newbury offers a delightful mix of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Visitors can enjoy golf at local courses, explore scenic parks, and delve into the town's educational venues. Key attractions include the iconic Highclere Castle, which is a must-visit, alongside historic sites and beautiful national parks, making Newbury a perfect base for your exploration.
- Hurstbourne Tarrant: Just 8km from Highclere Castle, Hurstbourne Tarrant is a charming village that provides a peaceful retreat for families and couples alike. The village is surrounded by lush countryside, ideal for outdoor activities such as walking and cycling. With its quaint streets and welcoming community, Hurstbourne Tarrant invites visitors to enjoy a slower pace of life. Local attractions include historical landmarks and a quaint museum, offering a glimpse into the area's heritage while ensuring a delightful visit.
- Basingstoke: Located 21km from Highclere Castle, Basingstoke is a bustling town known for its blend of modern amenities and historical charm. The town is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, with numerous recreational areas and theatres to explore. Families will appreciate the variety of activities available, including motor racing events and parks. Basingstoke's proximity to national parks and historic sites makes it an exciting destination for those looking to experience both adventure and culture during their stay.
Things to do near Highclere Castle
Shopping
Highclere Castle offers a delightful shopping experience, with a charming gift shop on-site featuring unique memorabilia. If you're up for a drive, visit the nearby Newbury town centre, where you can explore the Parkway Shopping Centre for a range of shops and boutiques, or head to the Northbrook Street for local markets.
Recreation
Highclere Castle offers tranquil gardens and picturesque grounds, perfect for leisurely strolls and reflection. Enjoy wellness activities such as yoga sessions on the lawn or indulge in a relaxing afternoon tea in the opulent surroundings, immersing yourself in the elegance of English heritage.
Adventure
At Thruxton Kart Centre, 23km from Highclere Castle, experience the thrill of motor racing on a challenging track, perfect for adrenaline seekers. For a different adventure, head 37km to High Ropes Oxford, where you can navigate zip lines and aerial challenges amidst beautiful outdoor scenery.
Nightlife
Enjoy an evening at The Castle Inn, just a stone's throw from Highclere Castle, where you can relish traditional pub fare and local ales. For a more refined experience, visit The Dining Room at Highclere, offering exquisite dining with elegant ambience.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Highclere Castle
To save money on your visit to Highclere Castle, consider travelling during the cheaper months of January to February or November, with Mondays being the least expensive days to stay. Use Expedia to compare accommodation options, applying filters for budget and eco-friendly choices. Look for package deals that bundle flights and hotel stays for additional savings. For transport, utilise local buses or consider walking to explore the area at no cost. Be sure to check for any special admission fees or discounts for Highclere Castle to help keep your expenses down.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Highclere Castle are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to July and September, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Highclere Castle is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Highclere Castle is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the most affordable prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel stay at Highclere Castle with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions near Highclere Castle
Highclere Castle, renowned for its connection to Downton Abbey, offers visitors a captivating glimpse into history with its stunning architecture and gardens. Surrounding the castle, you can explore historic houses, nature reserves, and local museums that cater to cultural enthusiasts and families alike. Highlights include the intriguing castle entrance and the beautiful grounds, making it a delightful destination for travellers seeking a blend of outdoor activities and rich heritage.
- River Test: A picturesque river located 18km from Highclere Castle, the River Test is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and serene outdoor atmosphere. It offers opportunities for leisurely walks, picnics, and wildlife observation, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts.
- Donnington Castle: Situated 10km away, Donnington Castle is a historic site that exudes culture and romance. Explore its ruins and enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, while immersing yourself in the rich history that dates back to the 14th century.
- Newbury Town Hall: Just 8km from Highclere Castle, Newbury Town Hall is a striking example of Victorian architecture. This historic civic building showcases local culture and often hosts events, providing insight into the town's heritage and community spirit.
Best time to go to Highclere Castle
The best time to visit Highclere Castle is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Highclere Castle
Highclere Castle can be conveniently reached from several major airports. London Heathrow (LHR) is approximately 64km away, with excellent hotel options such as the 5-star Sofitel London Heathrow, located 3km from the airport, and Great Fosters, a 5-star hotel 10km away. London Gatwick (LGW), situated 85km from Highclere, offers luxury stays at the 5-star Alexander House And Utopia Spa, only 8km from the airport. For those considering London Stansted (STN), 129km away, The Linden Stansted, a 5-star guesthouse, is just 5km from the airport. Each hotel provides accessible transport options to their respective airports, ensuring a smooth journey.